About the UCRC
The Undocumented Community Resource Center (UCRC) provides a safe and confidential space for undocumented, DACAmented, and mixed-status students and families. We are committed to fostering an inclusive campus environment where all students can thrive regardless of immigration status. Merritt College is dedicated to supporting undocumented students. We will not share any personally identifiable student information, including immigration status, unless legally required to do so by a judicial warrant, subpoena, or court order, or if authorized by the student.
Services & Support
Dreamer Liaison Support
Through the Dreamer Liaison, the UCRC provides personalized guidance, including:
- Academic counseling referrals to help plan your educational journey.
- Assistance with AB 540 and Residency Reclassification petitions.
- Step-by-step support for the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) and financial aid guidance.
- Free legal services referrals in partnership with the East Bay Community Law Center.
- Information on paid volunteer opportunities
- Help navigating college services as an undocumented student.
- A supportive community club for undocumented, DACAmented, and mixed-status students to connect, share resources, and build a sense of belonging.
Financial Aid for AB 540 Students
If you qualify for AB 540, you may also be eligible for California state financial aid through the California Dream Act Application (CADAA). Please note the CA Dream Act Application must be submitted every academic year.
Residency Reclassification & Nonresident Tuition Waiver
If you were classified as a nonresident student, you may still qualify for in-state tuition through one of these options:
- AB 540 Eligibility
- Attended at least three years at a California high school, adult school, or
community college. - Graduated from a California high school, earned a GED, or completed an
associate degree. - Submit an AB 540 Affidavit to the Merritt College Admissions & Records Office.
- Attended at least three years at a California high school, adult school, or
- CA Residency Questionnaire Reclassification
- If you hold a qualifying immigration status for example, DACA, U Visa,
Refugee/Asylee and have lived in California for at least one year and one day,
you may submit a Residency Questionnaire with supporting documents. - Submit CA Residency Questionnaire to the Merritt College Admissions & Records
Office.
- If you hold a qualifying immigration status for example, DACA, U Visa,
Contact Us
¡Hablamos Español!
UCRC Dreamer Liaison: Fernanda Castorena
Email: mcrodriguez@peralta.edu
Schedule an Appointment with Fernanda: Book Here!
Follow Us on Instagram: @merritt.ucrc